lay siege
The term "lay siege" originates from military tactics but is also used figuratively to describe persistent efforts to gain control or attention.
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Definition
B2Military
(technical, historical)To surround a place with armed forces to capture it or force its surrender.
Example
- The army laid siege to the city for several months before it fell.
B2Figurative
(general)To persistently and aggressively pursue or attack someone or something.
Example
- The paparazzi laid siege to the celebrity's house, hoping to get a photo.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "lay siege":